One element.
A remarkable reach.
The element, its ions and its compounds play different roles. Understanding those differences is the first step towards understanding zinc.
Life, health & nutrition
Essential trace nutrient
Zinc is involved in normal growth, immune function and cellular processes. Food and nutritional adequacy belong at the centre of this story; health claims need their own evidence.
Read the evidenceSoils, crops & food
Agricultural micronutrient
Zinc is essential for plants. A good fertiliser decision starts with the soil, the crop and local evidence. Zinc deficiency should be assessed before interventions are proposed.
Read the evidenceSunscreen, cosmetics & care
Zinc oxide · ZnO
In sunscreens and cosmetics, zinc oxide can serve specific formulation roles. Its presence in a product is the beginning of a technical discussion about performance, testing and intended use.
Read the evidenceLubricants & formulated materials
Zinc compounds
Zinc-containing chemistry has roles in antiwear lubricant additives and materials such as rubber. The compound, specification and complete formulation determine what it can do.
Read the evidenceThe built environment
Galvanising & zinc alloys
Zinc coatings protect steel against corrosion. Thoughtful specification connects that function to maintenance, service life and the practical question of how a structure will be used.
Read the evidenceBatteries & emerging storage
Electrochemical applications
Zinc is part of familiar batteries and newer storage systems. Different chemistries have different strengths; their performance should be compared under realistic operating conditions.
Read the evidence